Saving the City

On May 21st, 2008 over 500 people marched through the streets of San Francisco’s Central City to protest Proposition 98, a measure that would destroy Rent Control. The march and rally was one of the most spirited and alive political events I have witnessed for at least five years; and an honor to co-organize. I always hesitate before I use the term “diverse” as the right-wing has learned how to mis-use that word. It was obvious however that the key organizations: Community Housing Partnership, Bernal Heights Neighborhood Center, and Chinatown Community Development Center had reached deep inside their base communities, activating the passions of everyday people. At times, the march resembled more of a street party. A resident from the Senator Hotel brought his drum and the crowd collectively remixed the chants, which eventually morphed into Spanish and Chinese.

Chant #1: Save, our city, save our state: vote no on 98!

The next generation of freedom-fighters.

Norman Fong (CCDC) and Lashawndra Price (CHP) MC’d the event. This was Lashawndra’s first time as an MC for a demonstration and she rocked the house. Supervisor Peskin is in the background.

Liana, Amina and Ayala Villasenor and Ayesha Cope–up and coming new leaders in SF’s social justice movement.

To assemble the demonstration, we organized a “snake march”-three marches making the rounds through the Tenderloin and converging on City Hall. Bernal and CCDC also did an amazing job of turning folks from their neighborhoods out! Thanks also to South of Market Community Action Network, Senior Action Network, Young Workers United, Poor Magazine, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Center, Central City SRO Collaborative and Tenants Together for coming through!